Semester 1 highlights video

By Nick Yates and Zhibang Liu, ISB Communications

Published on Friday, December 19, 2025

As Semester 1 draws to a close, we’re looking back on some of the moments that made the past few months so memorable at the International School of Beijing (ISB) – from challenging and joyful learning to celebrations of ISB’s 45 years at the heart of China’s capital city.

ISB lives by its Mission, and our list of Strategic Focus Areas ensures we are consolidating our efforts and resources around what is most valued by the community. ISB’s work August through December put these principles into action, including through our Enhancing the Student Experience, Together initiative. This has empowered our whole community to help us ensure that ISB is a haven for student focus, belonging, and learning.

Semester 1 of 2025-2026 held many memorable moments, like:

• In ISBs 45th anniversary year, we are offering community members plenty of ways to celebrate with us and to contribute to the festivities in some small but meaningful ways.
• Digital Citizenship Week helped students, parents, and staff consider issues around online safety and best practice. The policy of Phone-Free ISB has much improved students’ focus in the learning spaces.
• International Day 2025 reflected ISB’s commitment to global citizenship and diversity.
• Other annual ISB favorites including Book Week and the Great Wall Shootout basketball tournament returned, providing peak moments as well as plenty of learning.
• ISB also hosted the prestigious China Cup tennis tournament.
• Respected alumni and other special guests have given Leadership Talks to inspire students and community members on hot contemporary topics.
• ISB has consolidated its status as a leading center for performing arts, though numerous productions and concerts.

Throughout the semester, classes were challenged and found joy with modern academic and vibrant co-curricular programs empowering those taking part. And ISB showed its ongoing commitment to sustainability and ensuring that everyone can feel at home in this inclusive international community. Click the video link above, and we’ll see you in 2026!